A Fascinating Mix of Historical Charm and Contemporary Energy

A. About Vilnius

Nickname:The Jerusalem of Lithuania

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, boasts a well-preserved medieval old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its diverse architecture, from Gothic to Baroque.

The city is also a vibrant cultural hub, offering numerous museums, galleries, and a thriving arts scene, making it a dynamic blend of history and modernity.

In recent years, Vilnius has become known for its tech industry and startups, contributing to its modern, dynamic economy.


The Good:

Vilnius is generally a safe city with a low crime rate, making it a comfortable destination for travelers.

The city is relatively clean, with well-maintained public spaces and minimal litter. However, it doesn't quite reach the high standards of the world's cleanest cities.

Furthermore, Vilnius has a functional public transport system that makes getting around the city relatively easy. However, it's not as extensive or efficient as in larger cities with more developed networks.

Finally, Vilnius is reasonably affordable, offering good value for money, especially compared to Western European cities.

The Not-So-Good:

Illustrated by the score table, Vilnius has not a very pleasant climate. But if you manage to visit during the summer months, the weather should be fine.

The friendliness and warmth of the locals in Vilnius can vary, and some visitors may find the demeanor of the people to be reserved or less welcoming.


B. Best Things to Do in Vilnius in 2024 (Detailed List with Photos and Information)

In total, we count more than twenty sights in Vilnius. The following sights and attractions contribute to a score of 6.00/10 in this most important category. 

# HISTORIC CENTRE 7 3.5 out of 5 stars

The Historic Centre of Vilnius showcases a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical architecture, reflecting the city's evolution since the medieval period.

The area is known for its winding streets, significant landmarks like the Vilnius Cathedral, and a vibrant cultural scene.

City District 🌍 World Heritage Site: since 1994

by Michal Gorski / CC BY-SA 3.0

# CHURCH OF ST. ANNE 6 3.1 out of 5 stars

The Church of St. Anne is a masterpiece of Flamboyant Gothic architecture, built in the late 15th century and known for its intricate red brick façade and detailed design. This church remains one of the most iconic symbols of Vilnius.

Church 🌍 World Heritage Site: since 1994

by Diliff / CC BY-SA 3.0

 

# Ausros Vartu Street 6 3.1 out of 5 stars

Ausros Vartu Street, also known as "Gate of Dawn Street," is a historic thoroughfare in Vilnius, home to the revered Chapel of the Gate of Dawn, which houses the famous icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The street   and is a major pilgrimage destination.

Street

by Wojsyl / CC BY-SA 3.0

 

# CATHEDRAL 6 3.1 out of 5 stars

Vilnius Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral Basilica of St Stanislaus and St Ladislaus, is the most important Catholic building in Lithuania, with a neoclassical design dating back to the 18th century.

Cathedral 🌍 World Heritage Site: since 1994 | Erected: 1783

by Scotch Mist / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

# GEDIMINAS’ TOWER OF THE UPPER CASTLE 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

Gediminas’ Tower, the remaining part of the Upper Castle in Vilnius, stands as a symbol of the city and the nation’s resilience, offering panoramic views of Vilnius.

It is closely linked to the founding of Vilnius and Lithuanian statehood.

Tower 🌍 World Heritage Site: since 1994

by BigHead / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

# Cathedral Square 5 2.7 out of 5 stars

Cathedral Square in Vilnius is the central public square, located at the foot of Gediminas’ Hill, and serves as the focal point for national ceremonies and public gatherings.

It is flanked by the Vilnius Cathedral and the historic Bell Tower.

Square

by Guillaume Speurt / CC BY-SA 3.0

 

# KGB Museum (Genocido Auku Muziejus) 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

Housed in a former KGB headquarters, this museum vividly documents Soviet repression in Lithuania, showcasing cells, interrogation rooms, and extensive archives.

It serves as a stark reminder of the atrocities committed during the Soviet occupation.

Museum

by Augustas Didžgalvis / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

# Church of St Catherine 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

This Baroque church, dating back to the 17th century, is renowned for its elegant facade and acoustics, frequently hosting concerts.

Church

by Augustas Didžgalvis / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

# Church Of St Peter and St Paul 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

This 17th-century Baroque masterpiece is famed for its stunning white stucco interior, featuring over 2,000 intricate sculptures.

Church

by Augustas Didžgalvis / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

#10 | Vilnius TV Tower 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

Standing at 326.5 meters, the Vilnius TV Tower is the tallest structure in Lithuania, offering panoramic views of the city and a revolving restaurant.

It's also a symbol of the 1991 January Events, marking Lithuania's fight for independence.

TV Tower Completed: XXXX

Luko Bartkaus nuotr.

by Lukas Bartkus / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

Scoring and Icons Legend (Click here for detailed information)

10 = top-10 sight in the world

9 = world-class  

8 = outstanding

7 = excellent 

6 = impressive

5 = interesting

4 = decent

3 = mediocre

2 = bad

1 = abysmal

🌍 = World Heritage Site

= Excursion

C. Other Notable Sights and Attractions in Vilnius

    • Pilies Street 5
    • University of Vilnius 5
    • Gate of Dawn 5
    • Latvian National History Museum 5
    • Gediminas Hill 4
    • MO Museum 4
    • Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, National Museum 4
    • Three Crosses Hill 4

D. Best Day Trips and Excursions from Vilnius

Trakai 7 3.5 out of 5 stars

Trakai, a historic town in Lithuania, is known for its picturesque island castle surrounded by lakes and its rich multicultural heritage, including Karaite, Lithuanian, and Polish communities.

The Trakai Island Castle, built in the 14th century, is a prime example of Gothic architecture and a popular tourist destination.

Island Castle  

by Diliff/ CC BY-SA 3.0

 

Kaunas (101 km from Vilnius) 5

Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum (81 km from Vilnius) 5

Klaipėda (214 km from Vilnius) 5


E. Top 10 List of the Best Things to Do in Vilnius (including close-by excursions)

To sum things up, these are the ten best sights we recommend to you when visiting Vilnius for at least three entire days:

🌍 HISTORIC CENTRE 7

🌍 Trakai 7 (25 km away)

🌍 CHURCH OF ST. ANNE 6

Ausros Vartu Street 6

🌍 CATHEDRAL 6

🌍 GEDIMINAS’ TOWER OF THE UPPER CASTLE 5

Cathedral Square 5

KGB Museum 5

Church of St Catherine 5

Church Of St Peter and St Paul 5